How to Maintain Your Patios, Walkways, and Hardscapes During Winter

Winter can be tough on your outdoor spaces, but with a little maintenance, your hardscaped areas can withstand the elements and look great year-round. Whether you have a beautiful patio, functional walkways, or custom hardscaping features, proper care during the colder months ensures longevity and keeps them in top shape. Here are our top tips for maintaining hardscapes during winter and snowy conditions:

Before winter sets in, give your patios and walkways a thorough cleaning to remove dirt, debris, and organic matter like leaves. These materials can stain surfaces and encourage moss or algae growth when wet. Use a broom or leaf blower to keep the area clear throughout the season.

When clearing snow, opt for plastic or rubber-tipped shovels instead of metal ones. Metal shovels can scratch and chip the surface of your hardscape, especially if it’s made of stone or concrete pavers. Be gentle when removing snow to prevent damage.

While ice melt is essential for safety, some products can be harsh on hardscapes. Avoid ice melts containing rock salt (sodium chloride) as it can corrode surfaces and harm surrounding plants. Instead, choose a calcium chloride or magnesium chloride-based product, which is less abrasive and more environmentally friendly. Always rinse the area once temperatures rise to prevent residue buildup.

Sealing patios and walkways helps protect them from moisture and freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to cracks. If your hardscape isn’t already sealed, consider applying a high-quality sealant before winter. This barrier helps repel water, reduce staining, and maintain the material’s durability.

Proper drainage is crucial during winter. Ensure that water and melted snow can flow away from your hardscaped areas. Standing water can refreeze and cause cracking or heaving. Check for low spots and ensure that downspouts and drains are clear of obstructions.

Winter weather can exacerbate existing issues. Regularly inspect your hardscapes for cracks, loose pavers, or other damage. Addressing small problems promptly prevents them from becoming larger, more expensive repairs in the spring.

Snowblowers and plows can damage the edges of patios and walkways. If you use equipment to clear snow, avoid running it directly along the edges. For paver joints, ensure that polymeric sand is intact to prevent water infiltration and freezing.

If maintaining your hardscapes during winter feels overwhelming, consider scheduling professional maintenance. At Third Space Design Build, we offer services to help keep your outdoor spaces in great condition year-round.

Your patios, walkways, and other hardscaped areas are an investment that enhances the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. By taking the time to care for them during winter, you’ll extend their lifespan and ensure they’re ready to enjoy when warmer weather returns.

If you have any questions about maintaining your hardscapes or are interested in creating a new outdoor space, contact us at Third Space Design Build. We’re here to help with expert advice and custom designs tailored to your needs!